IND vs AUS: India’s build-up to their Australian limited-over tour got off to a promising start with both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli producing glimpses of coming back into top nick in the first net session at Optus Stadium. Cricket lovers were treated to a laid-back but intense training session as the Indian superstars hit the nets, attracting a crowd looking to catch a glimpse of their heroes in action.
Virat Kohli’s Sharpness Impresses in Return to Training
Virat Kohli, returning to the Indian team after a break after the Champions Trophy, was the focus of attention. The fans were eagerly waiting for his return, and Kohli did not fail to impress. The 34-year-old was sharp in his fielding exercises, where his urgency was evident. As he performed a series of catching drills, the vibe of the session was electric, with fans observing the player’s intent approach.
Kohli’s batting session in the nets lasted around 40 minutes. Facing quick bowlers Harshit Rana and Arshdeep Singh, Kohli seemed comfortable despite a few early, uncomfortable moments.
He was tested on a lively pitch, but the elegant timing of his shots and his fluency at the crease stood out. His commitment to getting into position against fast deliveries indicated that he was gearing up for the challenges of the upcoming ODI series against Australia.
Having not participated in any cricket since the IPL, Kohli’s return to full fit is a boost for India, especially considering that this might be his final tour of Australia. His presence has only built up expectation for the series, with more than 50,000 fans likely to turn up at Optus Stadium for the first ODI.
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Rohit Sharma Shakes Off Rust in Nets For IND vs AUS
Whereas Kohli made his impression with his intensity, Rohit Sharma’s session too was started by a struggle to get his timing in the beginning. Like Kohli, Rohit also has not played international cricket since the Champions Trophy. His footwork looked a bit slow to begin with, and he struggled to get his bat in the middle while batting in the initial stages of his batting practice.
But Rohit did not give up and kept working gradually getting more confident. He was in the nets longer than Kohli and slammed some strong shots as his timing came around. All this time in the nets helped him develop rhythm and became more familiar with the conditions.
The visual of Rohit finding his rhythm spells good tidings for India’s ODI horizon, particularly with the team about to face a high-pressure match against Australia.
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India’s Training Session Environment and Fan Engagement
The mood within Optus Stadium during the training session was laid-back but charged with excitement. Fans, fortunate enough to get a glimpse of their cricketing idols, were treated to an entertaining performance from Kohli and Rohit. The two players, renowned for their fan-friendly nature, took time off practice to sign autographs and click pictures with fans, making for a cherished memory for their fans.
This session was also the comeback of KL Rahul, who was the lone member of India’s Test team against the West Indies to train with the limited-overs unit. The team arrived in Perth well in advance of time, with some of the important members, like Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Mohammed Siraj, coming in later.
Australia’s Training Session: A Quiet Warm-Up
As much as the Indian team stole the show, Australia’s optional training session at Optus Stadium was considerably more subdued by comparison. The majority of the Australian team attended, with Mitchell Starc a standout for his pace, putting the batters under a test. Former Test express Jhye Richardson was also an inspiring presence, as he works on his way back from shoulder surgery.
Regardless of the relaxed environment, Australia’s players were already getting themselves ready for what promises to be a brutal summer of cricket. With the Ashes and the ODI series against India approaching, the level of intensity will certainly increase.
Kohli and Rohit’s Impact on India’s ODI Series Preparation
Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s training performances lay the groundwork for what promises to be a thrilling ODI series against Australia. Kohli’s form, combined with Rohit’s increasing confidence, provides a touch of optimism as India builds towards a make-or-break summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
With the Ashes series also being played at Perth, the Indian team’s arrival has further increased the excitement for cricket in Australia, where the Indian team has a huge fan base. Kohli’s comeback, in fact, has generated a ticket rush like never before, with thousands set to pack the stands of Optus Stadium.
India’s buildup is going on in full swing now, with a complete practice session planned for Friday, where both sides will prepare themselves for the much-awaited ODI opener on Sunday.
India’s Schedule in Australia
India will play three ODIs against Australia, on October 19 (Perth Stadium), October 23 (Adelaide Oval), and October 25 (Sydney Cricket Ground).
After the ODI leg, the focus will shift to the T20I series, where Suryakumar Yadav will take over as captain. India will play five T20Is, a key step in their preparation for the T20 World Cup in early 2026.
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